Getting ready to seperate lower unit, a few questions

[Roger Schweitzer]

We`re dealing with a 1973 115hp rude model # 115393m. Carbs have been removed for rebuild and bellcrank is also removed. Gear case is in neutral and old style barrel connector easly accesable. my questions are as follows. as I remove all bolts and begin lowering LU do I unscrew the barrel connector? Looking at the shift rod I can see where (with the barrel still connected) it might pass through the pivot shaft, but there is no way it`s going to go through the lower mount cover. Sorry but am I over thinking this procedure? Second, with both parts and FSM in hand it mentions I believe OMC sealer compound M for installing the water pump housing and base plate. My problem being I live 250 miles round trip to the nearest boating supply store. If there is an automotive substitute could you please advise. Sorry about beating a dead horse but all the service manual says is to disconnect the shift connector and drop. Thanks to all in advance. Roger